Posted In

Share

Sanctuary Group has unveiled what is believed to be the world’s first public sculpture of Charles Rennie Mackintosh to mark the completion of its regeneration of Anderston in Glasgow.

The artwork was commissioned by Sanctuary Group to mark the completion of the affordable housing provider’s £60 million regeneration of Anderston, Glasgow. Created by Andy Scott, is believed to be the world’s first public sculpture celebrating Mackintosh, one of Scotland’s most famous sons.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon formally unveiled Mackintosh’s statue, on Monday – the 90th anniversary of his death - before paying tribute to the renowned artist, architect and designer.

Sturgeon said: “This magnificent new Charles Rennie Mackintosh statue is a fantastic addition to Glasgow and recognises the incredible legacy of one of Scotland’s most iconic architects, designers and artists. It is a privilege to officially unveil this installation, which now stands in pride of place in Anderston – an area transformed through the ten-year regeneration project.”

Sanctuary Scotland Housing Association worked with the local community, Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council to transform Anderston’s housing stock. The 10-year project saw many 1960s blocks demolished and replaced with 540 high quality, affordable homes.

Craig Moule, Sanctuary Group’s Chief Financial Officer, who will become the organisation’s Chief Executive on 1st January, said; “We believe this statue is a fitting way to mark the completion of Sanctuary’s regeneration of Anderston. We couldn’t have asked for a more apt artwork to acknowledge all that is great about Glasgow. The thousands of people who’ll pass the statue each day will help to ensure Mr Mackintosh’s memory lives on.”

Scott, a former Glasgow School of Art student, said: “Most of my memories as a Glasgow School of Art student have Mr Mackintosh's beautiful building as a backdrop. His distinctive architectural styling and the sculpted detailing of that building undoubtedly influenced my career path.”

Mr Scott created the sculpture in clay before it was cast into bronze. The completed statue weighs three tons, is 2.8 metres tall and sits atop a 2.2 metre plinth. It shows Mackintosh sat on the famous high-backed chair he designed for Glasgow’s Argyle Street Tea Rooms. The statue faces west from a section of Argyle Street reinstated during Sanctuary’s regeneration of Anderston.